This study updates the distribution and status of Arctotheca calendula (L.) Levyns (Asteraceae, Cichorioideae) in continental North Africa (Algeria and Tunisia). Field surveys carried out mainly in northeastern Algeria (from 2021 to 2024) and northern Tunisia (from 2004 to 2023) by the first two authors, led to the identification of a total of 13 new localities (5 in Algeria and 8 in Tunisia), some of which are located far from the locations where the plant was previously reported by other authors. Our results showed that A. calendula spreads in a westward direction in Algeria from the first recorded occurrence (El Behaira pond). To the contrary, in Tunisia the species spreads towards the north, east and west from the first recorded occurrence (Sejnane). Currently, in both Algeria and Tunisia, the species colonizes exclusively wetlands, but a possible future expansion into other habitats, notably coastal dunes and beaches, cannot be ruled out. Additionally, the species is likely to spread into western Algeria as it was recently detected just 7 km from the border between Algeria and Morocco where it is widespread. To highlight this spread, a map of the current distribution of A. calendula within continental North Africa (mainly Algeria and Tunisia) and field images are provided; the possible negative impacts of the species are also discussed. As a result of this work, A. calendula can be defined as a species with high invasive potential in continental North Africa. Its invasion in Algerian and Tunisian wetlands requires the implementation of a management plan to control its further spread within these threatened ecosystems. Hand-pulling is, in our opinion, the best solution, but it needs to be implemented quickly before the species’ range expands further, notably in Algeria.